Audien Overview

Until recently, hearing aids required a prescription and carried a hefty price tag of around $4,600 per pair, making them inaccessible for many individuals with hearing impairments. However, the introduction of “over-the-counter (OTC)” hearing aids, legalized for purchase in the United States as of October 2022, has brought down the cost significantly. Nonetheless, these OTC hearing aids still come with a substantial average price of $1,600.

Audien, a notable OTC brand, has gained recognition for offering more budget-friendly hearing aids. Their leading model, the Atom, is priced at $99, a figure that appears remarkably affordable, perhaps even too good to be believed.

How Hearing Loss Affects Individuals?

The wide-ranging effects of hearing loss on both physical and mental well-being underscore the importance of our mission at the Handbook Team. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive information about hearing aids, ensuring that every individual has access to the best resources. By doing so, we aim to facilitate the availability of high-quality hearing aid products to those who require them, thereby making a positive impact on their lives.

The ramifications of hearing loss on both physical and mental well-being are profound. That’s why, at the Handbook Team, we’ve made it our mission to ensure that everyone has access to the most reliable information regarding hearing aids. By doing so, we aim to facilitate the distribution of quality products to those in need, ultimately making a meaningful difference in their lives.

Audien Hearing Aid Models

Audien, headquartered in the United States, offers seven models of assistive hearing devices directly to consumers through online channels. The company prides itself on providing these devices at accessible prices, as they do not necessitate a hearing exam or fitting conducted by an audiologist, according to Audien’s own statements.

While Audien labels its products as hearing aids, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes them as personal sound amplification products (PSAPs). Unlike traditional hearing aids, these devices are available over the counter and amplify a broad range of sounds rather than selectively enhancing specific frequencies while muting others. Their purpose is to assist adults with normal hearing in improving their auditory experience in particular environments. Notably, the product descriptions lack specific guidance on the degrees of hearing loss for which these devices are suitable.

Although the EV1 and EV3 models are still available for purchase, a company representative has noted that these devices are now classified as “legacy models.”

Audien EV1

Compact enough to fit comfortably, the Audien EV1 is as small as a dime and boasts a battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge. Additionally, the pair includes four different earbud tip sizes, catering to a wide range of ear shapes and sizes to ensure optimal comfort and fit.

Audien EV3

Even smaller than the EV1, the EV3 model is crafted for a discreet and comfortable fit, virtually invisible when worn. Each pair is equipped with six different tip sizes, ensuring a secure placement in the wearer’s ear. With a single battery charge lasting up to 24 hours, and the added convenience of wireless charging, the EV3 offers both extended use and hassle-free recharging.

Audien Atom

Type: In-the-ear

Hearing modes: Default.

Rechargeable Battery: Yes

Wireless charging: No.

Key feature: Lowest price on the market.

Despite its compact size, this model offers superior sound quality compared to the EV models, thanks to advanced sound technology powered by the trademarked Atom chip. The Atom chip enables wireless charging and delivers an impressive battery life of around 25 hours.

Audien Atom 2

Type: In-the-ear

Hearing modes: Conversation, Noisy Environment, Road Vehicle, and Outdoor.

Rechargeable Battery: Yes

Wireless charging: No.

Key feature: 28% smaller than the original Atom model.

Audien’s Atom 2 device delivers clear sound and effective background noise cancellation in an even smaller and more discreet size than the Atom model, courtesy of the company’s upgraded Atom 2 chip sound technology, which incorporates four distinct hearing modes. The device’s new contoured design ensures comfortable all-day wear, as stated by the company. Additionally, the Atom 2 offers wireless charging capabilities and boasts a battery life of 24 hours, providing enhanced convenience for users.

Audien Atom Pro

Type: In-the-ear

Hearing modes: Default

Battery: Rechargeable

Wireless charging: Yes

Key feature: Includes a portable wireless charger

The company claims that these compact hearing devices feature improved feedback cancellation and deliver superior sound quality. Each device is accompanied by a charging case, serving both as a storage solution and a charging hub. Remarkably, they offer up to four days of usage on a single charge, providing extended functionality for the wearer.

Audien Atom Pro 2

Type: In-the-ear

Hearing modes: Conversation, Road Vehicle, Noisy Environment, and Outdoor

Rechargeable Battery: Yes

Wireless charging: No

Key feature: UV sanitation within the charging case

Leveraging the company’s latest A2 sound technology chip, the Audien Atom Pro 2 provides four hearing modes along with effective background noise cancellation. Customers investing in the Atom Pro 2 receive a UV cleaning and charging case, designed to eliminate bacteria while conveniently recharging the device. Notably, the Atom Pro 2 stands as Audien’s smallest offering yet, boasting a remarkable battery life of 24 hours.

Audien BTE

Type: Behind-the-ear

Hearing modes: Conversation, Noisy Environment, Outdoor, and Music Listening

Rechargeable Battery: Yes

Wireless charging: No

Key feature: Dedicated music listening mode

Audien’s behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid showcases an invisible and discreet design crafted for a secure and comfortable fit, as affirmed by the company. This model boasts directional sound technology, effective background noise cancellation, and 11 adjustable volume levels. It offers additional convenience with wireless charging. With a battery life exceeding 20 hours on a single charge, the duration may vary depending on customer usage.

Audien’s hearing devices excel in amplifying sound, yet they may not suffice as a solution for individuals with diagnosed degrees of hearing loss or those facing more severe hearing health conditions. In such cases, seeking care from an audiologist or hearing health professional is essential. It’s worth noting that Audien does not mandate customers to undergo a hearing health exam before purchasing its devices.

Depending on the specific model purchased, customers may receive a charging base with their devices. However, various accessories can be purchased separately on the Audien website, including:

• Charging cords compatible with all models
• Screwdrivers to adjust volume
• Wax guards
• Earbuds
• Cleaning brush
• Carrying case

Pricing

Audien takes pride in offering high-quality sound amplification products at significantly lower prices compared to traditional hearing aids. Below, you can find the prices for each Audien assistive hearing device model.

MODEL name	PRICE (PER PAIR)
EV1	$89
EV3	$199
Atom	$99
Atom 2	$189
Atom Pro	$249
Atom Pro 2	$289
BTE	$489

Audien provides a protection plan specifically tailored for Atom series devices, available at either $4 per month or $24 annually. This comprehensive plan offers coverage for lost, defective, broken, or water-damaged devices, ensuring peace of mind for customers regarding their investment in Audien products.

Customers enrolled in the protection plan can benefit from discounted prices for replacement devices. This allows customers to obtain new devices at reduced costs, providing added value and convenience for those covered by the protection plan.

• Atom: $24
• Atom 2: $39
• Atom Pro: $34
• Atom Pro 2: $49

Audien’s BTE model protection plan presents customers with the opportunity to acquire one-year coverage for a flat fee of $39. Customers enrolled in the BTE protection plan are entitled to receive a replacement device for the cost of $89. This plan provides peace of mind and assurance for customers regarding their BTE device investment.

Conclusion

Audien hearing devices are designed to enhance the clarity and volume of sounds; however, they are not classified as hearing aids by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, they are not intended to replace professionally-fitted hearing aids. Nevertheless, Audien’s affordable devices can prove beneficial for individuals struggling with hearing difficulties, particularly in noisy or crowded environments.